Hey guys! This time of year is one where I naturally slow down, especially after Christmas. I think it’s the perfect time to curl up with a good book and cup of coffee, and fill ourselves up as we prepare for a new year to begin. I am honestly not much of a fiction reader; I’ve always been drawn to non-fiction and gleaning wisdom from an author’s real life experience. So, today I am going to be sharing some books I’ve recently read, am currently reading, and want to read! If you have any recommendations for me, even if they’re a fiction must read, please comment and let me know!
(None of these links are affiliate, just linking so you can check them out easily if you’re interested.)
Anonymous, by Alicia Britt Chole
This book is a must read for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the hidden years of Jesus’ life, which is not a widely discussed topic. It contains transformative wisdom for those in seasons of their own hiddenness, and although the chapters are short and easy to read, there is so much weighty truth to absorb! You won’t regret reading this.
Hinds’ Feet in High Places: An Engaging Visual Journey , by Hannah Hurnard
This is the one fiction book on this list, and it’s a beautiful and compelling allegory that follows the journey of “Much-Afraid” as she becomes who she was truly made to be. It’s eye opening to see how her journey takes her to places she didn’t expect, understand or believe she could handle, but how in the end it was exactly what she needed. All the while her heart was learning to trust the Shepherd. It’s one that I will read over and over and have bought as gifts for others too!
Come Matter Here, by Hannah Brencher
If you’ve read Hannah’s previous book, If You Find this Letter, or her blog, you know that Hannah has a way with words. She has a God given ability to extract glorious nuggets of wisdom from her real life interactions, experiences, and even struggles, and communicate those treasured nuggets in such a poetic yet relatable way. Come Matter Here is for anyone who has come to the end of themselves, wondering where and how their life can offer significance. Hannah’s story is honest, inspiring, and a message our generation desperately needs. So grateful for her heart and her willingness to bare it so that we can join her in her journey to come matter here.
Rhythms of Grace, by Kerri Weems
This is a book I’ve just recently started digging into, and the revelation in the first 4 chapters alone is paradigm shifting. Kerri digs into the command of “sabbath”, and offers her real life encounter with needing to honor this sacred gift of rest God has given us. She has practical and scriptural advice on how to implement a life that is in rhythm with rest, which I think so many people are in need of, especially in the church. Excited to delve further into this.
Now for some books on my want to read list which I can’t say much about other than why they’ve peaked my interest:
The Sacred Slow, by Alicia Britt Chole
Another by the author of Anonymous above, I love her writing style and the depth of wisdom that I experienced in her previous book. The idea of “fast faith” is so prevalent in modern church and Christianity, and to be honest it’s just not my speed. That being said, this is the day and age we are living in and God is moving. Books like this excite me because they offer a counterpart, a balance to the norm that nurtures that need for slow.
Girl, Was Your Face, by Rachel Hollis
I am by nature one who tends to over-focus on the negatives, on what I haven’t accomplished, or how I have failed to meet my own expectations. I find the message of this book to be incredibly inspirational as it speaks directly to that. Not to mention, I always love supporting and learning from boss-ladies who seem to balance family and achieving their dreams.
The Artisan Soul, by Erwin McManus
I am definitely one who would consider myself a creative. I thrive when I can put that creativity to use, so the idea of God being creative, and making us creative beings clearly hits home for me. I look forward to reading this and learning how unlocking creativity and living a creative life is a reflection of our creator.
Defiant Joy: Taking Hold of Hope, Beauty and Life in a Hurting World, by Stasi Eldridge
Stasi is the author of Captivating, which was widely popular many years ago. I love the heart she and her husband John carry, and the messages they have penned for the church at large. Joy in the midst of the trials of life isn’t always easy, or simply in this day and age and overall global climate isn’t easy. I would be intrigued to hear her heart on this topic!
That’s it for now! Have you read any of these books?! What is on your current reading list? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram what you’re reading, or if you check any of these out!
I will be taking a break for 2 weeks to celebrate the Holidays disconnected from social media but connected with my family starting this Friday. I hope you all have a joyful, memorable, merry Christmas with your loved ones! I will be back to ring in the New Year. See ya then!
Xo Melissa
